Another Mid-Size Crossover – 2019 Mazda CX-9

All Mazda CX-9 models come equipped with the badly named (a personal worst in the auto industry?), but good performing SKYACTIV-G 2.5T.

The global crossover phenom continues with the second-generation Mazda CX-9 mid-size three-row crossover ($33000 to +$46,000), available in both front-drive and all-wheel-drive formats.

Mazda is the largest automaker threatened by Trump Tariff tantrums since Mazda no longer makes anything in the U.S.

Mild tweaks to the four-cylinder-only successor to the minivan see the addition of factory-equipped Apple CarPlay and Android Auto infotainment technologies as standard equipment in Mazda CX-9 Touring trim level and above.

Also, are “a refined, retuned suspension” that offers a smoother, quieter and more natural ride and greater sound suppression by way of a thicker headliner and thicker floor mats.

The loaded Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring builds upon the above and adds a new 7-inch TFT reconfigurable gauge cluster display first seen in the 2018 Mazda6 midsize sedan, ventilated front seats, new power-folding door mirrors and a new 360° View Monitor.

All Mazda CX-9 models come equipped with the badly named (a personal worst in the auto industry?), but good performing SKYACTIV-G 2.5T turbocharged four-cylinder rated up to 250 horsepower on 93-octane gas (227 horsepower with 87-octane gasoline) and 310 lb.-ft. of torque irrespective of fuel octane.

All CX-9 models route power through a six-speed SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic transmission. Mazda’s i-ACTIV all-wheel drive (where do they get these cursed names?) is standard in CX-9 Signature and optional (~$2,000) with all other trim levels. Mazda’s i-ACTIV all-wheel drive uses 27 sensors throughout the vehicle to paint a picture of road conditions and is designed to route power from the front to rear wheels and vice versa so the driver and passengers do not feel wheel slip. It can adjust more than 200 times per second.

The 2019 Mazda CX-9 will begin to arrive in some dealerships in the U.S. this month and will be in dealerships nationwide in September.

About Ken Zino

Ken Zino is an auto industry veteran with global experience in print and electronic media. He has auto testing, marketing, public relations and communications expertise garnered while working in Asia, Europe and the U.S.